Published on: 13th May 2021

Even with a lifetime of experience to draw on, the coronavirus pandemic has hit older people hard.

As we now move out of lockdown, many of us may still be feeling anxious about how to enjoy the freedom but also stay safe.

Polly Kaiser, consultant clinical psychologist, has shared tips on how to prepare and take care of your mental health and wellbeing.

Put some plans in your diary to look forward to, for when restrictions start to ease.

  • What activities and interests did you enjoy doing before the pandemic? Can you do it now, or with some slight adjustments?
  • Make a 'to do list' for each day, writing shopping lists, making calls, ordering repeat prescriptions.
  • Continue accessing treatment and support for health conditions from your GP.
  • Keep moving!
  • Keep in touch with friends, family, neighbours, clubs, and your community by phone.
  • Volunteer to become a phone befriender to others or receive a call from one.
  • Arrange to meet up safely outside with a family member or friend.

Try to focus on things in your control. Take time to talk about how you’re feeling with others, it can really help.

You can call the team at the Silver Line helpline on 0800 470 80 90 for a chat.

Or you can text a crisis volunteer at SHOUT by texting GM and the area in which you live to 85258 (e.g. GMBury, GMOldham)

Even if you haven’t had anyone close to you die, the whole lockdown and pandemic may have bought back feelings of loss of other loved ones.

This is normal and is called “re-grief”.

You can get bereavement support by calling:

  • The NHS Bereavement helpline: 0800 2600 400
  • Greater Manchester Bereavement services: 0161 983 0902

Continue to wash your hands regularly, wear a face covering and where possible meet friends and family outdoors.

Have both your vaccines as they’ll help protect you and your loved ones.

When you can have visitors in your home, keep a window open to ventilate the room.

Focus on activities you enjoy and take note of things that bring you joy and share with others. Check out some of some ideas here.

With possible physical pain, loneliness, grief or re-grief, it's understandable that you may feel on an emotional rollercoaster.

We all do things in the short term to comfort ourselves when we are under stress, such as drinking alcohol, eating too much or not enough, and it’s okay to ask help.

If you've significantly increased your alcohol intake or those around you are worried, you can access support from your GP - surgeries are open and can also offer telephone consultations. Alternatively you can call Drinkline free on 0300 123 1110.

If you're experiencing high levels of distress you can refer yourself to our Healthy Minds services.